Senator Risa Hontiveros has filed a cyberlibel complaint with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) against Michael Maurilio—also known as “Alyas Rene”—and the social media page “Pagtanggol Valiente” for circulating a video that accused her of manipulating witnesses against former President Rodrigo Duterte, Vice President Sara Duterte, and detained pastor Apollo Quiboloy.
Hontiveros clarified the main goal of her complaint is to uncover those behind the production and dissemination of the videos. “No one has claimed responsibility yet, and we need to know who’s orchestrating this,” she said in an ambush interview.
Maurilio, who previously testified about abuse by Quiboloy and alleged firearm possession by the Dutertes, appeared in the video claiming his earlier statements were fabricated under Hontiveros’ influence.
The senator stressed she’s open to fair criticism but won’t tolerate malicious lies targeting her, her staff, the witnesses, and even the Senate.
She also revealed Maurilio once reached out for help, claiming he was abducted and held at Glory Mountain in Davao City. Although she continues to pray for his safety, Hontiveros maintained he must be held accountable for spreading falsehoods.
The senator asked the NBI to probe the suspiciously timed creation of the social media account that uploaded the video and to investigate several vloggers and personalities who helped amplify the claims—naming Krizette Chu, Jay Sonza, Sass Sasot, Trixie Cruz-Angeles, Banat Bay, and others.
Hontiveros warned more charges beyond cyberlibel may follow as the investigation deepens.